Carnitas La Esquinita
Last inspected: Mar 7, 2025
86
Score
The health department has logged 19 inspections at Carnitas La Esquinita, the earliest from 2013. The most recent visit was on Mar 7, 2025. Low risk indicates the latest report didn't flag anything that would worry the average customer.
Recent inspections have found fewer violations than earlier ones, averaging around two violations lately and about six violations before that.
Across the inspection history, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” is the issue that surfaces most often, recorded 11 times.
Restaurants in Chicago average 81, so Carnitas La Esquinita is doing better than most peers. There isn't much in the file that would give a customer pause.
19
Inspections
0
Critical latest
0
Major latest
3
Minor latest
Inspection History
Mar 7, 2025
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: NOTED NO LABELS FOR BULK STORAGE CONTAINERS (SALT AND SUGAR). INSTRUCTED PERSON IN CHARGE OF ALL BULK AND WORKING FOOD INGREDIENT CONTAINERS MUST BE LABELED WITH CONTENTS NAME.
37
In-use utensils: properly stored
Inspector notes: OBSERVED SCOOPS FOR DRY STORAGE CONTAINERS BEING STORED DIRECTLY INSIDE OF THE CONTAINER. INSTRUCTED TO STORE ALL UTENSILS BETWEEN USE PROPERLY.
43
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED DUST BUILDUP ON VENTILATION SYSTEM NEAR HAND SINK AND ON BACK OF PREP COOLER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO CLEAN AND MAINTAIN ALL WALLS AND EQUIPMENT VENTILATION SYSTEMS.
56
86
Mar 27, 2024
Routine
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RAW WOOD SHELF IN KITCHEN OVER COOKING AREA CONTAINING TO GO CONTANERS. RAW WOOD MUST BE SEALED OR PAINTED.
47
95
Nov 20, 2023
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH CURRENT ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
95
Nov 14, 2023
Reinspection
1 major violation. 1 minor violation.
View 2 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: 3-603.11 FOUND NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED "RAW" OR UNDER COOKED AND LINK THOSE FOODS WITH AN ASTERISK (*) TO A REMINDER STATEMENT THAT STATES THAT EATING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005 CITATION ISSUED
25
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13 CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH CURRENT ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
86
Nov 7, 2023
Routine
2 major violations. 10 minor violations.
View 12 violations
Consumer advisory provided for raw/undercooked food
Inspector notes: FOUND NO CONSUMER ADVISORY DISCLOSURE AND REMINDER STATEMENT ON THE MENU. MANAGEMENT INSTRUCTED TO DISCLOSE WHICH FOODS CAN BE ORDERED "RAW" OR UNDER COOKED AND LINK THOSE FOODS WITH AN ASTERISK (*) TO A REMINDER STATEMENT THAT STATES THAT EATING RAW OR UNDER COOKED FOODS CAN INCREASE YOUR RISK OF FOOD BORNE ILLNESS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005
25
Garbage & refuse properly disposed; facilities maintained
Inspector notes: OBSERVE REAR OUTSIDE GARBAGE DUMPSTER NOT MAINTAINED PROPERLY, NOT CLEAN AND WITH OVERFLOWING GARBAGE . INSTRUCTED TO EMPTY GARBAGE CCONTAINER, DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN THE SURROUNDING AREAS. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-020 (B)
54
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: TOILET ROOM RECEPTACLE MUST BE COVERED. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE COVER/LID.
53
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN FLOORS AND WALLS WITH DRIED FOOD SPILLAGE AND THROUGHOUT PREP/COOKING AREA.
55
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE UNNECESSARY ARTICLES STORED BETWEEN 2 DOOR REACH IN COOLER AND WALL IN PREP/COOKING AREA.
55
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITH EXPIRED ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. INSTRUCTED ANY PERSON WITH CITY OF CHICAGO FOOD SERVICE SANITATION CERTIFICATE TO COMPLY WITH CURRENT ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATION.
58
Approved thawing methods used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED IMPROPER THAWING PROCEDURE ON FROZEN CHICKEN. INSTRUCTED MANAGEMENT, THAWING MUST OCCUR UNDER REFRIGERATION THAT MAINTAINS THE FOOD TEMPERATURE AT 41.0F OR LESS OR COMPLETELY SUBMERGED UNDER RUNNING WATER OR THAWED IN A MICROWAVE OVEN AND IMMEDIATELY TRANSFERRED TO CONVENTIONAL COOKING EQUIPMENT WITH NO INTERRUPTION IN THE PROCESS. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN CORRECT THAWING PROCEDURES.
35
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE THERMOMETER VISIBLE INSIDE ALL COOLERS (PREP COOLER, REACH-IN COOLERS, WALK-IN COOLER)
36
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN AND MAINTAIN STORAGE RACKS WITH WHITE MOLDLIKE BUILD-UP INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO TRANSFER FOOD PRODUCTS FROM AN OPEN ORIGINAL CAN CONTAINER (CHILI PEPPERS) INTO FOOD GRADE CONTAINER FOR PROPER FOOD STORAGE INSIDE REACH-IN COOLER.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE CARDBOARD LINER ON PREP AND STORAGE SHELVES IN PREP/COOKING AREA.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR LEAKY DRAINPIPE UNDERNEATH 3 COMPARTMENT SINK (FAR RIGHT) IN PREP/DISHWASHING AREA.
51
50
Dec 22, 2022
Reinspection
5 minor violations.
View 5 violations
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: 4-602.11(B-E)--OBSERVED A SLIGHT DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ENCRUSTED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DEBRIS, DETAIL CLEAN INSIDE ICE MACHINE/HAVE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES.
16
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-101.19--OBSERVED RUSTS ON THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUSTS AND REPAINT OR REPLACE THE SHELVES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: 4-501.12--OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: 4-202.18--INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD/FILTERS TO REMOVE HANGING GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: 2-102.13--OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING AND MAINTAIN.
58
78
Dec 15, 2022
Routine
1 major violation. 10 minor violations.
View 11 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATIONS NOT CORRECTED FROM INSPECTION REPORT#2545411 DATED:12/10/2021 #37--OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF RICE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE WITH NO LABELS. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL WITH COMMON NAME. #39--OBSERVED MEAT IN WHITE CHEST FREEZER FROZEN IN GROCERY STORE BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO ONLY STORE FOOD IN FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS. #48--OBSERVED LARGE POT USED FOR MAKING CARNITAS UNABLE TO BE SUBMERGED IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CREATE WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR POT AND KEEP ON SITE. #51--OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE CONNECTED TO MOP SINK LOCATED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL. #56--OBSERVED BURNT OUT LIGHTBULBS IN DINING ROOM, BATHROOM, UNDERNEATH HOOD, AND IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION. #57--OBSERVED 2 EMPLOYEES WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES MUST COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. INSTRUCTED TO CORRECT NOTED VIOLATIONS AND MAINTAIN BY 12/22/2022. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-42-090,CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO HANDWASHING SIGNAGE AT HAND SINK IN WASHROOM.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN.
10
Food-contact surfaces: cleaned & sanitized
Inspector notes: OBSERVED A SLIGHT DEBRIS ACCUMULATION ENCRUSTED ON THE INTERIOR OF THE ICE MACHINE.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE DEBRIS, DETAIL CLEAN INSIDE ICE MACHINE/HAVE SERVICED AND MAINTAIN ICE MACHINE AT ALL TIMES.
16
Personal cleanliness
Inspector notes: OBSERVED EMPLOYEE WITH NO HAIR RESTRAINT IN THE FOOD PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROVIDED HAIR RESTRAINTS FOR ALL EMPLOYEES IN THE FOOD PREP AREA.
40
Wiping cloths: properly used & stored
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO PROPERLY STORE AND MAINTAIN ALL WASHCLOTHS IN A SANITIZING SOLUTION ESPECIALLY WHEN NOT IN USE.
41
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED RUSTS ON THE WIRE STORAGE RACKS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO REMOVE RUSTS AND REPAINT OR REPLACE THE SHELVES.
47
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED STAINED CUTTING BOARDS IN THE KITCHEN PREP AREA.INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE OR REPLACE THE CUTTING BOARDS AND MAINTAIN.
47
Non-food/food contact surfaces clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN EXTERIOR OF GREASE TRAP, PREP TABLES, FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS, INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF THE CHEST FREEZER AND PREP COOLERS,SIDES OF HOT COOKING EQUIPMENTS AND DEEP FRYER.
49
Physical facilities installed, maintained & clean
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO REPLACE DAMAGED,WATER STAINED CEILING TILES IN KITCHEN PREP AREA AND DETAIL CLEAN WALLS ABOVE THE COOKING EQUIPMENTS TO REMOVE FOOD SPLASHED DEBRIS.
55
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO DETAIL CLEAN KITCHEN EXHAUST HOOD/FILTERS TO REMOVE HANGING GREASE BUILD-UP AND MAINTAIN.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: OBSERVED THE CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGER WITHOUT THE ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATE. MUST SHOW PROOF OF TRAINING AND MAINTAIN.
58
55
Dec 10, 2021
Routine
3 major violations. 7 minor violations.
View 10 violations
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO VERIFIABLE HEALTH POLICY ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN HEALTH POLICY SIGNED BY ALL EMPLOYEES ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO KIT AND PROCEDURE FOR RESPONDING TO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA ON SITE AT TIME OF INSPECTION. LEFT ONE PAGER AND INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN PROCEDURE AND KIT CONTAINING ALL NECESSARY SUPPLIES INCLUDING A SANITIZER RATED AS EFFECTIVE AGAINST NOROVIRUS ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
City of chicago food service sanitation certificate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO CERTIFIED MANAGER BETWEEN 2:30 AND 3:00PM WHILE TCS ITEMS SUCH AS TACOS WERE PREPARED. CERTIFIED MANAGER ANGELICA GUIJOSA ARRIVED ON SITE AT 3PM. INSTRUCTED TO MAINTAIN EMPLOYEE HOLDING CITY OF CHICAGO FOODSERVICE MANAGER CERTIFICATE ON SITE AT ALL TIMES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION 7-38-012. CITATION ISSUED.
2
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO THERMOMETER INSIDE WALK-IN COOLER AND 1 DOOR PREP COOLER LOCATED OPPOSITE COOK LINE. INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE.
36
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BULK CONTAINERS OF RICE IN BASEMENT DRY STORAGE WITH NO LABELS. INSTRUCTED TO LABEL WITH COMMON NAME.
37
Contamination prevented during food preparation, storage & display
Inspector notes: OBSERVED MEAT IN WHITE CHEST FREEZER FROZEN IN GROCERY STORE BAGS. INSTRUCTED TO ONLY STORE FOOD IN FOOD GRADE CONTAINERS.
39
Warewashing facilities: installed, maintained & used; test strips
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE POT USED FOR MAKING CARNITAS UNABLE TO BE SUBMERGED IN 3 COMPARTMENT SINK. INSTRUCTED TO CREATE WRITTEN CLEANING PROCEDURE FOR POT AND KEEP ON SITE.
48
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE CONNECTED TO MOP SINK LOCATED IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO INSTALL.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED BURNT OUT LIGHTBULBS IN DINING ROOM, BATHROOM, UNDERNEATH HOOD, AND IN PREP AREA. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR AND MAINTAIN IN GOOD CONDITION.
56
All food employees have food handler training
Inspector notes: OBSERVED 2 EMPLOYEES WITH NO FOOD HANDLER TRAINING. INSTRUCTED ALL EMPLOYEES MUST COMPLETE FOOD HANDLER TRAINING AND MAINTAIN RECORDS THEREOF ON SITE AT ALL TIMES.
57
52
Oct 13, 2020
Reinspection
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET AT CHEST FREEZER IN KITCHEN PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LID ON TRASH CAN IN UNISEX BATHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
90
Oct 2, 2020
Routine
1 major violation. 3 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Previous core violation corrected
Inspector notes: PREVIOUS CORE VIOLATION NOT CORRECTED FROM 8/23/2019, REPORT #2305167. #51-NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE FOR MOP SINK AND ICE MACHINE. MUST PROVIDE AND MAKE VISIBLE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES FOR MOP SINK AND ICE MACHINE. PRIORITY FOUNDATION VIOLATION. 7-42-090. CITATION ISSUED.
60
Adequate handwashing sinks properly supplied and accessible
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO EMPLOYEE HAND WASHING SIGNAGE IN BATHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
10
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED TORN RUBBER GASKET AT CHEST FREEZER IN KITCHEN PREP AREA. MUST REPLACE.
47
Toilet facilities: properly constructed, supplied, & cleaned
Inspector notes: OBSERVED NO LID ON TRASH CAN IN UNISEX BATHROOM. MUST PROVIDE.
53
78
Aug 23, 2019
Routine
4 major violations. 5 minor violations.
View 9 violations
Procedures for responding to vomiting and diarrheal events
Inspector notes: NO VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEANING PROCEDURE ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE A VOMIT AND DIARRHEA CLEANING PROCEDURE WITH ALL NECESSARY ITEMS AS OUTLINED IN POLICY ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
5
Proper date marking and disposition
Inspector notes: OBSERVED REFRIGERATED TCS FOODS NOT LABELED OR DATED. INSTRUCTED MANAGER REFRIGERATED, READY-TO-EAT, TCS FOOD, PREPAPRED ON SITE AND HELD GREATER THAN 24 HOURS MUST BE LABELED WITH SELL BY DATE INCLUDED. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
23
Thermometers provided & accurate
Inspector notes: NO METAL STEM THERMOMETER ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE AND CALIBRATE A METAL STEM THERMOMETER AND KEEP ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-005. NO CITATION ISSUED.
36
Management, food employee and conditional employee; knowledge, responsibilities and reporting
Inspector notes: NO EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST PROVIDE AN EMPLOYEE HEALTH POLICY ON PREMISES. PRIORITY FOUNDATION 7-38-010. NO CITATION ISSUED.
3
Food properly labeled; original container
Inspector notes: BULK CONTAINERS NOT LABELED IN PREP AREA. MUST LABEL ALL BULK CONTAINERS.
37
Food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable, properly designed, constructed & used
Inspector notes: PREP AREA REACH IN COOLER (ALONG COOKLINE)DOOR RUBBER GASKETS NOT TIGHT FITTED TO COOLER DOOR. MUST MAKE COOLER DOOR GASKET TIGHT FITTED.
47
Plumbing installed; proper backflow devices
Inspector notes: NO BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE FOR MOP SINK AND ICE MACHINE. MUST PROVIDE AND MAKE VISIBLE BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICES FOR MOP SINK AND ICE MACHINE.
51
Adequate ventilation & lighting; designated areas used
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE CEILING LIGHT BULB COVER MISSING ABOVE PREP AREA TABLE. MUST PROVIDE AND MAKE TIGHT FITTED A CEILING LIGHT COVER FOR SAID CEILING LIGHT BULBS.
56
Allergen training as required
Inspector notes: NO FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES. INSTRUCTED ALL CITY OF CHICAGO CERTIFIED FOOD MANAGERS MUST PROVIDE FOOD ALLERGEN TRAINING CERTIFICATES ON PREMISES.
58
52
Mar 27, 2018
Routine
2 minor violations.
View 2 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED LARGE CONTAINERS OF SALSA AND PREPARED FOOD ITEMS IN THE WALK-IN COOLER LOCATED IN THE BASEMENT WITHOUT DATE LABELS. COOKED/PREPARED FOODS OUT OF ORIGINAL CONTAINER MUST HAVE LABEL AND DATE WHEN PRODUCT IS HELD OVER 24 HOURS.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: INSTRUCTED TO ELEVATE WET MOPS IN BETWEEN USE FOR SANITARY PURPOSES. INSTRUCTED TO RESURFACE THE WOOD SHELF THE MICROWAVE RESTS ON WITH CHIPPED PAINT TO PROVIDE A SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE SURFACE. INSTRUCTED TO DETIAL CLEAN THE DRY STORAGE RACK ABOVE THE HAND WASHING SINK IN THE PREP AREA TO REMOVE FOOD DEBRIS BUILDUP.
32
90
Apr 11, 2017
Routine
3 minor violations.
View 3 violations
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ESTABLISHMENT USING PLASTIC GROCERY BAGS TO STORE FROZEN MEAT INSIDE CHEST FREEZER. INSTRUCTED MANAGER MUST USE FOOD GRADE PLASTIC BAGS FOR MEATS ONLY.
30
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: 1-DOOR PREP COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKETS NOT TIGHT FITTED AT UPPER CORNER ALSO 3-COMPARTMENT SINK MISSING STOPPERS (X2).INSTRUCTED MANAGER SAID REACH IN COOLER DOOR RUBBER GASKET MUST BE TIGHT FITTED AND MUST PROVIDE STOPPERS FOR 3-COMPARTMENT SINK.
32
Appropriate method of handling of food (ice) hair restraints and clean apparel worn
Inspector notes: OBSERVED ONE FOOD HANDLER NOT WEARING HAIR RESTRAINT. INSTRUCTED MANAGER ALL FOOD HANDLERS MUST WEAR HAIR RESTRAINTS.
42
86
Sep 8, 2016
Reinspection
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE IDPH FOOD HANDLER'S CERTIFICATES FOR ALL NEW FOOD HANDLING STAFF, COOKS, WAITRESSES AND DISH WASHERS (EMPLOYEES) AT ALL TIMES.
45
95
Jul 18, 2016
Routine
6 minor violations.
View 6 violations
Facilities to maintain proper temperature
Inspector notes: DURING INSPECTION FOUND A REFRIGERATOR MAINTAINING 52F AT THE LOWER COMPARTMENT. DID NOT FIND ANY POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS FOODS INSIDE THIS UNIT AT THIS TIME. UNIT WAS TAGGED. INSTRUCTED NOT TO USE UNTIL OR REMOVE TAG UNTIL CDPH INSPECTS UNIT.NO CITATION ISSUED AT THIS TIME.CDI.
2
Food in original container, properly labeled: customer advisory posted as needed
Inspector notes: FOUND CHICKEN AND BEEF BEING STORED INSIDE WHITE PLASTIC SHOPPING BAGS INSIDE A 2DR COLD HOLDING UNIT AND AN ICE BOX FREEZER. MUST ALWAYS STORE FOODS IN FOOD GRADE BAGS AT ALL TIMES.
30
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: MUST DETAIL CLEAN AND SANITIZE THE EXTERIOR SURFACE OF THE HOT WATER HEATER TANK STORAGE ROOM DOORS TO REMOVE EXCESSIVE GREASE ACCUMULATION.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR FLOOR INI POOR REPAIR LOCATED IN FRONT OF THE ICE MACHINE AND THE SWINGING DOOR LEADING INTO THE KITCHEN AREA. ALSO THE BROKEN FLOOR TILES LOCATEDAT THE TOP OF THE STAIRCASE LEADING TO THE BASEMENT AREA. FLOORS MUST ALWAYS BE SMOOTH AND EASILY CLEANABLE.
34
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: FOUND A NON-WORKING THERMOMETER INSIDE THE BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER. MUST ALWAYS PROVIDE WORKING THERMOMETERS FOR ALL REFRIGERATORS, WALK-IN COOLERS AND COLD HOLDING UNITS.
40
Food handler requirements met
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE IDPH FOOD HANDLER'S CERTIFICATES FOR ALL NEW FOOD HANDLING STAFF, COOKS, WAITRESSES AND DISH WASHERS (EMPLOYEES) AT ALL TIMES.
45
74
Jul 16, 2015
Routine
7 minor violations.
View 7 violations
Food protected during storage, preparation, display, service and transportation
Inspector notes: FOUND RAW BEEF STORED ABOVE UNCOVERED/OPEN POT OF COOKED BEANS INSIDE THE KITCHEN 2 DOOR COOLER.INSTRUCTED MANAGER TO PROPERLY COVER ALL FOODS AND STORE READY TO EAT FOOD ABOVE RAW FOODS IN COOLERS TO PREVENT CONTAMINATION. SERIOUS VIOLATION 7-38-005(A).
16
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: REPLACE OR REPAIR RUSTY SHELVINGS INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER USING A NON-TOXIC FINISH AND REPLACE BROKEN GLASS AT FRONT ENTRANCE DOOR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Food and non-food contact equipment utensils clean, free of abrasive detergents
Inspector notes: CLEAN INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR OF ALL COOKING EQUIPMENTS, SINKS, COOLERS, PREP TABLES, ICE MACHINE,FAN COVERS INSIDE THE WALK-IN-COOLER AND MAINTAIN.
33
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: FLOORS ALONG WALLS AND IN ALL CORNERS REQUIRE A DETAIL CLEANING AND MAINTAIN.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: CLEAN FAN BLADES IN THE CUSTOMER DINING ROOM (DUST BUILDUP) AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN ADEQUATE SINK STOPPERS FOR THE 3 COMPARTMENT SINK,AND PROVIDE MISSING BACKFLOW PREVENTION DEVICE FOR ICE MACHINE AND MAINTAIN.
38
Refrigeration and metal stem thermometers provided and conspicuous
Inspector notes: NO THERMOMETER INSIDE THE FLAN DESSERT COOLER.INSTRUCTED TO PROVIDE AND MAINTAIN AT ALL TIMES.
40
70
Jul 9, 2014
License
1 minor violation.
View 1 violation
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REPAIR CHEST FREEZER DOOR THAT IS IN POOR REPAIR IN BASEMENT AREA AND PROVIDE FOOD GRADE BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE.
32
95
Jan 13, 2014
Routine
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST RESTRICT USING CARRYOUT BAGS FOR FOOD STORAGE, MUST INVEST IN FOOD GRADE BAGS, AND RESEAL RUSTY WIRE SHELVING IN BASEMENT WALK-IN COOLER,
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST CLEAN FLOOR INSIDE THE FURNACE ROOM FIRST FLOOR KITCHEN AREA, AND UNDER COOKING EQUIPMENT IN SAME AREA,
34
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL BACK FLOW PREVENTIVE DEVICE AT FLOOR MOP SINK, TO PREVENT SEWER BACK-UP,
38
Premises maintained free of litter, unnecessary articles, cleaning equipment properly stored
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE CLUTTER IN BASEMENT AREA, CLEAN AND BETTER ORGANIZE AREA, PROVIDE SHELVING TO BETTER ORGANIZE AREAS,
41
82
Jan 18, 2013
License
4 minor violations.
View 4 violations
Food and non-food contact surfaces properly designed, constructed and maintained
Inspector notes: RUBBER GASKET ALONG THE DOOR OF THE PREP COOLER FOR THE VEGETABLES RIPPED OFF, NOT IN GOOD REPAIR. MUST REPAIR AND MAINTAIN.
32
Floors: constructed per code, cleaned, good repair, coving installed, dust-less cleaning methods used
Inspector notes: MUST INSTALL COVING 4" INSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER AND OUTSIDE THE WALK IN COOLER HALLWAY IN THE BASEMENT. LEAKING FROM THE WALL BASE BESIDE THE WALK IN COOLER IN THE BASEMENT. WATER ALL OVER THE FLOOR DUE TO LEAK. INSTRUCTED TO REPAIR THE WALL BASE TO STOP THE LEAK. AND DRY THE FLOOR IN THE BASEMENT TO PREVENT INSECTS HARBORAGE. LANDLORD BASEMENT CONNECTED TO THE BASEMENT OF THE ESTABLISHMENT, WITH CLUTTER ALL OVER THE FLOOR(CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS, PIECES OF WOODS ETC.) INSTRUCTED TO DISPOSE ANY ITEMS NOT BEING USED,ELEVATE THE REST OF THE ITEMS/ARTICLES OFF THE FLOOR TO PREVENT RODENT/INSECTS HARBORAGE. MUST CLEAN THE FLOOR INSIDE THE FURNACE ROOM. MUST SEAL THE GAP/HOLES ON THE FLOOR AROUND THE PIPE INSIDE THE FURNACE ROOM.
34
Walls, ceilings, attached equipment constructed per code: good repair, surfaces clean and dust-less cleaning methods
Inspector notes: WALLS INSIDE THE FURNACE ROOM WITH DUST ACCUMULATED . MUST CLEAN AND MAINTAIN.
35
Ventilation: rooms and equipment vented as required: plumbing: installed and maintained
Inspector notes: MUST REMOVE THE THREAD OF THE FAUCET OF THE MOP SINK. OR INSTALL A BACK FLOW PREVENTIVE DEVICE .
38
82
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Carnitas La Esquinita last inspected?
The most recent health inspection at Carnitas La Esquinita on file is from Mar 7, 2025. The public record contains 19 inspections in total.
What is the most common violation at Carnitas La Esquinita?
Across the inspection record, “food & non-food contact surfaces cleanable” has been cited 11 times, more than any other issue at Carnitas La Esquinita.
Has Carnitas La Esquinita's inspection record improved over time?
Yes. Recent inspections at Carnitas La Esquinita have averaged around two violations per visit, down from roughly six earlier in the record.
What does a low risk rating mean?
A low risk rating at Carnitas La Esquinita means inspectors found minimal or no significant issues at the most recent visit. Most facilities at this tier have a clean recent inspection report.
How often is Carnitas La Esquinita inspected?
Based on the inspection history on file, Carnitas La Esquinita is inspected around two times per year on average.
Nearby Restaurants